Mnemba Atoll

Mnemba Atoll lies off the northeastern coast of Unguja, Zanzibar’s principal island. Its dive sites include shallow coral gardens, sloping reefs, sandy channels, and deeper walls supporting hard and soft corals, schooling reef fish, moray eels, green turtles, and occasional reef sharks. Clear Indian Ocean water often provides excellent visibility, while currents create drift-diving conditions at several sites. The reef is part of the nationally protected Mnemba Island Marine Conservation Area, where fishing is restricted within the core zone and selectively managed around its perimeter. Scientific surveys nevertheless document pressures affecting Zanzibar’s reefs, including warming, bleaching, fishing, and increasing coastal use.

Fun Fact: Since 2018, Mnemba has supported a coral-restoration program using underwater nurseries and transplanted coral fragments, combined with research and community conservation work.